1979 Queen Elizabeth II Royal Mint Gold Sovereign

The 1979 Queen Elizabeth II Royal Mint Gold Sovereign is a significant coin in British numismatic history. It marks the first sovereign issued after the UK’s decimalisation and features the inaugural appearance of Queen Elizabeth II’s second definitive coinage portrait by Arnold Machin. This coin was the last generally released sovereign struck at the Royal Mint’s Tower Hill facility in London before production moved to Llantrisant, Wales.

Obverse Design:
The obverse showcases the second definitive coinage portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, designed by Arnold Machin. Her Majesty is depicted facing right, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara. The surrounding inscription reads: “ELIZABETH II DEI GRATIA REGINA F D.”

Reverse Design:
The reverse features Benedetto Pistrucci’s iconic depiction of St. George slaying the dragon, a design that has adorned sovereigns since 1817. The date “1979” is positioned below the scene.

Specifications:

Metal: Gold

Purity: 91.67% (22 carat)

Weight: 7.98 grams

Gold Content: 7.3224 grams (0.2354 troy ounces)

Diameter: 22.05 mm

Thickness: 1.52 mm

Shape: Round

Edge: Milled

Face Value: £1

Mint: The Royal Mint, London

Obverse Designer: Arnold Machin

Reverse Designer: Benedetto Pistrucci

Why Buy This Coin?

✔ Historical Significance: First sovereign issued post-decimalisation and last generally released from Tower Hill.
✔ Iconic Design: Features the renowned St. George and the Dragon motif by Pistrucci.
✔ Investment Value: Contains 0.2354 troy ounces of gold; exempt from Capital Gains Tax in the UK.
✔ Collector’s Appeal: High mintage yet sought after for its unique place in numismatic history.

Secure your 1979 Queen Elizabeth II Royal Mint Gold Sovereign to own a piece of British coinage history and a valuable addition to any collection or investment portfolio.